Maribel Martinez

Summer in Florida brings plenty of opportunities for outdoor fun, but high temperatures and strong sun can increase risks for babies and toddlers. But a few simple precautions can help little ones stay safe, healthy, and comfortable during the hottest months of the year. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, babies can overheat more quickly than adults because their bodies are still developing the ability to regulate temperature efficiently. Experts recommend limiting outdoor time...

In our close-knit community, children thrive in the presence of supportive, engaged, and active adult role models. Okeechobee fathers and father figures are heeding this call to action with the guidance of T.E.A.M. Dad, an educational support program available through Okeechobee Healthy Start Coalition. Research from the American Academy of Pediatrics shows that having an active father or father figure benefits a child’s emotional development, improves their social skills, leads to better...

May marks Maternal Mental Health Month, an opportunity to recognize the evolving needs of mothers in the postpartum period. As families adjust to life with a new baby, emotional well-being plays a vital role in building a healthy, confident foundation for both mother and child. At Okeechobee Healthy Start Coalition, we cultivate personalized support pathways that are rooted in connection, trust, and practical care. We understand that the postpartum experience is different for every mother,...